Loz's long road home

On the 7th of February this year, our dear friend Laurence (Loz) had a snowboarding accident in Val Thorens and was airlifted to Grenoble hospital in France. 

We are incredibly lucky that he is alive but sadly, he suffered a life-changing spinal injury of his cervical spine, leaving him unable to walk and he will likely need lifelong rehabilitation and care. This accident has had a devastating impact not only on Loz, but his wife Sarah and their two young children, Matilda (3) and Charlotte (1).

For those of you who know Laurence and Sarah, they are the kindest, most generous and loving people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. We all know how committed and dedicated Loz is, not only to his family but to achieving his goals. His love and commitment to the gym is paying off already and he has already amazed us with his willpower and determination to go the extra mile with physiotherapy to achieve results. Sarah is a paediatric doctor in the NHS, and has spent her whole adult life caring for children and giving to others. They both continue to inspire us with their positivity, strength and bravery through this recovery process. They have so much to worry about right now but we would like to try and take one worry away from them: the financial burden.

With the coronavirus pandemic, Loz has not been allowed any visitors in hospital for the last few weeks and has now been transferred to a rehabilitation unit 50 miles from his home. He has already been in hospital for 2 months and we expect his rehabilitation to continue for at least 6 months before being able to come home. Sarah, a doctor, is currently on maternity leave and as Loz cannot currently work, is only receiving 28 weeks of statutory sick pay at £92/week. 

Recovery from a devastating spinal injury like this is incredibly expensive. Their home will need some major work as at present there is no facility for a downstairs bedroom or bathroom. Added to this, there will be equipment costs such as wheelchairs and standing frames and ongoing physiotherapy once Loz is home which will be at an hourly rate.  We are also looking to bring Loz closer to home for the best rehabilitation possible whilst being nearer to Sarah and the girls, which is likely to cost in the region of £50,000 alone for 12 weeks.  We have many fundraising event ideas but unfortunately are not able to organise these events now due to the current situation. 

Aside from funds, we would also be so so grateful for any practical support or equipment that anyone would be able to offer. If Loz is to stay in Sheffield, any accommodation for Sarah and the girls once she is able to visit would also be warmly welcomed. If you are not able to donate but can provide helpful information, please leave us a message.

Thank you so much in advance, on behalf of Loz, Sarah and all their family and friends for all your help and generosity. We hope you are keeping safe and well.

xxxxx